Principal Project Manager - Head Recording R&D; Systems Lead (AI)

TL;DR

Principal Project Manager (AI/Systems): Technical leadership and architectural ownership for systems supporting advanced hard disk drive recording R&D with an accent on AI-enabled recording development. Focus on designing data pipelines, enabling AI/ML applications for analytics, and integrating recording physics with software platforms.

Location: Onsite in Bloomington, MN, US

Salary: $158,500 - $235,400

Company

Global leader in data storage innovation and precision-engineered storage solutions.

What you will do

• Own the technical architecture, system design, and roadmap for R&D systems supporting recording technology.
• Lead the technical enablement of AI and advanced analytics, including the evolution of data pipelines.
• Collaborate onsite with recording, design, and test teams to optimize engineering workflows.
• Provide senior technical leadership, design reviews, and mentorship to system contributors.
• Ensure the reliability, performance, and scalability of systems supporting recording development.
• Contribute to long-term enterprise systems strategy and evaluate investments in AI and data infrastructure.

Requirements

• 15+ years experience with BS, 12+ years with MS, or 8+ years with PhD in Engineering, Computer Science, Physics, or related fields.
• Must be based onsite in Bloomington, MN and be available for up to 25% domestic and international travel.
• Experience supporting complex technical or R&D systems, specifically within disk drive or storage technology.
• Working knowledge of AI/ML concepts applied to engineering, test, or analytics workflows.
• Proven ability to influence organizations through technical credibility rather than formal authority.

Nice to have

• Direct experience in disk drive recording development (heads, media, slider, and HGA).
• Familiarity with lab automation, characterization systems, or test data environments.
• Experience transitioning solutions from R&D into manufacturing.
• Experience leveraging manufacturing systems to accelerate R&D.

Culture & Benefits

• Comprehensive medical, dental, vision, and life insurance.
• Financial benefits including 401(k), employee stock purchase plan, HSA, and FSA.
• Paid time off: 12 holidays, flexible time off, 48 hours of paid sick leave, and 16 weeks of paid parental leave.
• On-site amenities: fully equipped fitness center, café, and meditation rooms.
• Culture of integrity, innovation, and inclusion.